Coastal Angler Magazine - April / Fort Myers - Cape Coral

FORT MYERS/CAPE CORAL/CHARLOTTE HARBOR EDITION

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FELICIA SCOCOZZA VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 278

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O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

APRIL 2018

W O R L D W I D E

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THE LIGHTEST PENN REEL EVER MADE The Lightest PENN Reel Ever Made. The all new Conflict II matches an extremely light weight design with PENN’s legendary durability. Featuring our RR30 body, CNC Gear Technology and HT-100 Drag system, the Conflict II is the ultimate inshore reel.

PENNFISHING.COM

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© 2018 PENN is a registered trademark of Pure Fishing, Inc.

3/19/18 1:35 PM

Solar Shade™ ZERO Long Sleeve Shirt

Who needs shade when you have OMNI-SHADE™ SUN DEFLECTOR? Little sun-deflecting dots are applied to the outside of an Omni-Shade™ garment to deflect sunlight away from the body, so you feel cooler and stay protected.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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CEO / EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com COO : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Derrick Oppelt • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : Chris Milner • (321) 631-1001 • cmilner@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Charlie Lamm • (252) 205-6472 • clamm@coastalanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

You guys are everywhere.

A

nglers share some very unique commonalities.

One trait that seems standard across the board is that whenever we find ourselves in a new destination, regardless of why we’re there, we always want to find out about “what’s biting.” Normally a quick trip to a local tackle shop gets us up to speed. I often hear from readers that they were in a different state or a different region and found a copy of our magazine at the tackle shop they went into. One such reader recently told me, “I live in Wilmington, North Carolina, and I read your Wilmington edition every month. I was in Mississippi recently on business and I saw a copy of your magazine at a local tackle shop. The next month I was in Key West, Florida and saw a copy of the magazine at a tackle shop there. I just landed in Connecticut today and can’t believe that I just picked up another copy of your magazine at a tackle shop here in Connecticut. You guys are everywhere.”

It is true; we are available for free in over 30 market areas, but we’re not everywhere yet. Our franchise publishing model is changing the way American anglers view a local fishing magazine, and we’re looking to further expand our footprint. If you think owning your own business as the publisher of your area’s local fishing magazine is something that would fit your career and lifestyle goals, give us a call for information on potential franchise opportunities in your area. Previous publishing experience is not required. We have a complete training program and ongoing support system that enables our co-publishing partners to quickly establish the magazine as a primary resource for the avid angler nearly everywhere.

Best regards,

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.

Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com

1-888-800-9794

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Honda

BLEED TRIM

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For destinations found on a map, or ones that are simply a state of mind, trust a reliable Honda outboard to get you there. And back. Find out more at ca.hondamarine.com.

GET UP TO 700 OFF SELECT OUTBOARDS! OFFER ENDS JUNE 4. $

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*At participating dealers only. Qualifying retail customers may receive instant savings off the selling price of a Honda powered boat package or Honda Marine engine(s) sold for repower. This promotion is limited to new Honda Marine 40 HP through 250 HP outboard engines, 2013 and newer models, sold and delivered between January 3, 2018 and June 4, 2018 and registered by the Dealer in accordance with American Honda Motor Co., Inc.’s sales registration requirements. Only Honda Marine outboard engines sold for personal use qualify for this promotion. Fleet, commercial & government sales are ineligible.

Engines sold under special pricing / promotions are also excluded. Honda Marine reserves the right to modify, amend, cancel or revoke, in whole or in part, this promotion at any time without prior notice.

SAFETY COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I APRIL 2018 I NATIONAL 7 © 2018 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

TRIM BLEED

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WHO CARES ABOUT PUTTING YOUR LURE RIGHT ON TOP OF FISH?

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

YOU SHOULD.

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CHIRP + CLEARVÜ + SIDEVÜ BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVÜ HD NETWORK CAPABLE & CONTROL KNOB WITH BUILT-IN WIFI®

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For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms.

Micron® Extra leads the charge in all waters. Using its signature dual-protection with boosting Biolux® technology, it provides high-quality, multi-season protection that survives hauling and relaunch without the need for repainting.

For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

The hero your boat deserves!

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Paddlesports Product Review CARIBE TIBURON INFLATABLE SUP You’ll be slithering through the waves with ease and gliding along in true mariner style when you hop on Caribe’s inflatable SUP. Decorated with a shark silhouette and further amplified by a cool camo print, this blue and black paddleboard is always a hit among water-lovers with a penchant for adventure.

The Tiburon Inflatable Paddleboard comes with 6 D-Rings on the softpad so you can attach a variety of accessories like a cooler, 2 Kayak Seats, dry bags, etc. it also comes with a D-Ring on the front bottom deck, excellent for anchoring or towing the board.

A very wide 34” design provides stability like no other board on the market. It’s ideal for fishing and long rides and has a smooth non-slip softpad that provides grip as well as comfort. Concerned about hooks on board or punctures from oyster beds? No worries! Double deck Tarpaulin layers protect the board from punctures while providing the most rigid inflatable experience out there.

All Caribe’s boards come with a 2-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

WWW.CARIBESUP.COM

AIRHEAD SUP BONEFISH 1138 True to its name, the Airhead SUP Bonefish 1138 is a paddleboard specifically designed for fishing. This super-stable fishing SUP has two inflatable sponsons that give anglers the firm platform they need for fighting big fish and navigating rough water.

There are four strategically placed mount pads on deck to accommodate four rod racks, Airhead SUP Fishing Racks and Bucket Racks. Two smaller accessory mounts are perfect for small rod holders or other accessories, and two stainless D-ring cooler tie downs round out endless possibilities for equipment customization. A classic teak-look EVA decking provides sure footing.

At just 41 pounds, transport of the Bonefish 1138 is easy, and two molded handles fore and aft make carrying it to the water a breeze, even when it’s fully loaded. There is versatility built in with 10 stainless steel D-rings and two stretch tie downs.

The Bonefish 1138 comes with a mesh backpack for transport and storage, a Hi Pressure hand pump for quick and easy inflation, a pressure gauge, valve wrench, board strap and repair kit.

WWW.AIRHEADSUP.COM

KAKU WAHOO 10.5 The new Kaku Wahoo 10.5 may be the baddest little ’yak on the water. It is a compact version of the Wahoo 12.5, which has proven itself as a superb fishing kayak.

Kaku went and shaved a couple of feet and more than 10 pounds off of the original Wahoo to create a boat that is easier to transport and paddles very well in the tight environs kayak anglers often find themselves in. And while the Wahoo 10.5 gives up size, it does not sacrifice fishability or performance. It has all the features of the Wahoo 12.5.

By flattening the rocker and lowering the keel, Kaku has designed a boat that tracks well and is easy to stand on. A sick deck pad rounds out the look of a quick little ’yak that is stable, comfortable and easy to handle.

KAKUKAYAK.COM

MANTA RACKS Whether it’s a mother-ship expedition offshore, a day-cruise to some isolated islands or exploration deep into the mangroves, there are a lot of places paddle-sports enthusiasts want to be that are too distant to access under paddle power. SUPs and kayaks take up a lot of room on the deck of the boat, and Manta Racks has come up with the perfect solution.

The Manta Racks system stores your kayaks or SUPs securely to your boat, where they are out of the way, and it utilizes the boat’s rod holders, so there’s no need to drill any new holes for mounting.

With a patented 360-degree locking swivel feature, paddleboards, wakeboards, kayaks, kiteboards, water skis and surfboards can be easily stored on the gunnel of the boat without drilling extra holes. All of your boards are out of the way of your passengers, securely fastened to your Manta Racks system. Go farther when you take your boards.

WWW.MANTARACKS.COM

WILDERNESS SYSTEMS RADAR SERIES With its new Radar Series, Wilderness Systems continues to build on its legacy of innovation, performance and quality in fishing kayaks.

The Radar Series is Wilderness Systems’ first tri-powered kayak, which means it has paddle, power and pedal capabilities. It features S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology that combines stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness and tracking throughout the entire design for ultimate

performance in multiple water environments.

In addition to a flat platform for standing and freedom of movement, the Radar boasts state-of-the-art outfitting including expansive SlideTrax rails, a multitude of storage opportunities, and scupper options to deploy the Helix MD motor drive, Helix PD pedal drive and multiple options for electronics, including down-imaging, side-scanning or both.

With Helix PD, a built-in steering control system allows for easy navigation that leaves your hands free for fishing. The AirPro Max seat complements the package with optimized positioning for any mode of travel.

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Paddlesports Product Review NUCANOE FLINT NuCanoe made waves when it introduced its new Flint kayak at iCast. Here is a boat jam-packed with features for serious anglers, yet the price tag is way below what you’d expect for such a high-quality kayak.

At 11’3”, and less than 70 pounds, The Flint is the perfect boat for exploring creeks, rivers and backwater marshes. It is agile, responding nimbly to the paddle, and it also tracks very well despite its shorter length. Light enough for easy one-man transport, this boat is amazingly stable, and unique scupper hole design provides a firm deck.

The Flint cockpit is wide open and fishes like a much larger kayak. There’s plenty of room and stability for standing to fish on an uncluttered deck, and the new Hawg Trough channel keeps your measuring board handy but out of the way.

With five gear tracks, handy spaces for tackle boxes and angled flush-mount rod holders, NuCanoe has come up with a simple yet efficient and customizable layout for everything an angler needs. The side handle that doubles as a quick-clip paddle holder is a handy innovation someone should have come up with long ago.

Cap it all off with the comfy custom-height Pinnacle seat NuCanoe is known for, and this is a top-notch fishing platform for a reasonable price.

WWW.NUCANOE.COM

PERCEPTION PESCADOR PILOT 12.0 Perception’s pedal-powered Pescador Pilot is a fishing machine that is extremely comfortable and functional for anglers. It excels in flat water and is an excellent kayak for inshore and bay fishing as well as on freshwater lakes and ponds.

The Pilot Drive propeller system effortlessly propels the boat, even in reverse, while leaving both hands free. The spacious, sit-on-top design with generous storage and accessory mounts make the kayak easy to customize. Superior stability allows anglers to cast and fight fish while standing.

Comfort is absolutely necessary for serious anglers spending long hours on the water.

The Pescador Pilot is built for that. A roomy captain’s chair features zonal mesh to promote cooling airflow. On-the-fly seatback adjustment tilts back for relaxed pedaling or forward for sportier pedaling.

With performance, comfort, features, and storage that outdistance its price point, especially for a peddle-driven kayak, the Pescador Pilot is also a great value. This boat is proudly designed, molded and hand assembled in the USA and is backed by a 5-year warranty.

WWW.PERCEPTIONKAYAKS.COM

OLD TOWN PREDATOR PDL Prepare yourself for a totally new fishing experience. Old Town has taken boat control to new heights with forward and reverse via an efficient and easy-to-use propriety pedal-drive system.

It gets you to the spot fast, and keeps you on the spot without paddling. With forward, reverse and agile maneuverability, you’ll experience precise boat control while your hands remain free to focus on fishing. The removable pedal drive installs in seconds and tips up instantly for shallowwater docking. The Predator PDL’s specially-designed hull combines the perfect balance of smooth pedal stroke speed and stand-up stability.

The Old Town PDL pedals exactly like a bicycle, converting modest pedaling into maximum propulsion. A 10.3:1 gear ratio means that anglers can reach speeds up to 5.5 mph to reach fishing spots fast and efficiently. It also makes trolling through a range of useradjustable speeds easy and effective.

The Predator PDL is infinitely customizable with rigging accessories from Cannon, Scotty, YakAttack, RAM and more.

WWW.OLDTOWNCANOE.COM

SEA EAGLE 350FX FISHING EXPLORER For anglers who like to go it alone, Sea Eagle’s 350fx is a terrific choice. The most stable and rugged entry in Sea Eagle’s Explorer Series of inflatable kayaks, it’s a lightweight (51-lbs.) and easily portable one-person fishing machine.

Nearly indestructible, the 350fx features a double layer of 1000 Denier reinforced protective layers on the tubes and bottom, a 40-inch fish ruler, plus two spray skirts—each with three rod holders and accessory belts that hold tools, hooks and lures. A fully adjustable foot brace is easily positioned for maximum comfort and more power per stroke while a nifty anchor system quietly locks in advantageous casting positions.

Suitable for paddling in waters rated to Class IV, 16 high-capacity self-bailing drain valves make this entry ideal for fishing in moderate whitewater rivers up to Class III. Close the valves to remain high and dry on flat waters, and insert the removable skeg to improve flatwater tracking.

Fully inflated in seven minutes, the 350fx fits in a car trunk and handles electric motors up to 34-pound thrust. This inflatable fishing kayak is 11’6” long and has a maximum weight capacity of 575 lbs.

WWW.SEAEAGLE.COM

FLYCRAFT STEALTH The Flycraft Stealth is one of the most versatile boats in the world. Its unique construction and shape give it the functionality of many boats in one. From motoring on the coast or lakes to rowing rocky streams and mild whitewater, the Flycraft Stealth is your one boat answer.

The boat’s lightweight and minimalistic design allow it to be easily carried on a roof or in a truck bed. No roof rack? No problem; this boat deflates and packs down to fit in a trunk or closet. At just 98 pounds, one person can easily transport or load this boat solo. For information, call 801-810-4022.

WWW.FLYCRAFTUSA.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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QUIK-CHANGE II ™ Our Innovative, Interchangeable Fixed Blade Cutlery System 9” FILLET 7” FILLET 5” FILLET 3” SERRATED

KN IVES easy blade release 12

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rugged canvas roll pack

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FLY FISHING

Michelle Bowman with a Yucatan baby tarpon from an inflatable SUP.

For more Bowman, go to

CAMFLYFISHING.COM

GAME CHANGER Sea Eagle FishSUP Stand Up Paddleboard

Win th Sea Eagle e FishSUP Pro Moto r Fishing Rig Packa ge!

Fu

www.Coa ll details at stalAngle rContest.c om

Fits in a Bag! Paddle or Motor

Incredibly stable, the new inflatable FishSUP FS126 Stand Up Paddleboard is an angler’s dream. Lightweight, packable, portable and ready in moments. The FishSUP fits in any car trunk and inflates in just 7 minutes. Stand, sit, fish, motor, troll, fresh, salt or brackish water...the FishSUP goes everywhere.

800-748-8066 M-F 9-5 EST Dept C2048B 19 N. Columbia St., Suite 1

• 12’6” long x 40” wide for exceptional stability • Motor mount holds up to a 55 lb. thrust electric motor • EVA foam pad for secure stand up footing • 36” Built-in fish ruler • Heavy duty two layer drop stitch construction for a solid, super tough SUP board • Multiple d-rings and elastic cord for gear & accessories

MSRP $1149!

Port Jefferson, NY 11777

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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NO 26

The best fishing stories start with you getting away.

F F

®

PINE ISLAND SOUND, FL

® ® ®

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Islandology is our way of life. It’s trying a new, secluded spot and finding no matter what you catch – you’re hooked.

®

Plan your trip at FortMyers-Sanibel.com

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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CoastalA

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2018 242CC

FISHING FOCUSED FAMILY FRIENDLY “Sailfish Boats are truly versatile. A great fishing boat and a great family boat all in one.”

2018 220CC ® Exclusive Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) Hull for Performance, Safety & Stability ® 10 year Structural Warranty ® SailTech Construction: 100% Composite, Reinforced with Kevlar® & Carbon Fiber ® Lifetime No-Rot Guarantee ® Bow To Stern Intelligent Ergonomic Design with Premium Finishes ® Family Friendly Features for Fun, Comfort and Safety

www.SailfishBoats.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Take a

ROD BUILDING CLASS

Boston, MA

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Register at:

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You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies.

geico.com | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Multi-Policy Discount available to auto insureds that have purchased a boat policy through the GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Center sp

For a limited time, get Suzuki Extended Protection, Instant Savings and attractive financing on select Suzuki outboards from 25 to 350 horspower. See your participapting Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

REPOWER FINANCE Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 350 HP.

Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models.

See your dealer for details.

Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboard on approved credit.*

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 04/01/18 and 06/30/18 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 04/01/18 and 06/30/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate form at time of sale. Instant Savings will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 04/01/18 and 06/30/18. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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FLORIDA

Photo by Zach Doleac

T

o an angler, sunglasses are a tool that’s as important to comfort and success as anything else on the boat. And when you purchase an expensive pair of high-performance shades from the tackle or fly shop, you don’t leave the store without an eyewear-retention lanyard to keep them safe while you’re on the water.

Only you don’t call this device an “eyewear-retention lanyard.” They are called Croakies, and the reason the brand is

synonymous with the product is because Croakies has been doing right by outdoors enthusiasts for more than 40 years.

Croakies was born in the mountains of Jackson, Wyoming more than 40 years ago. A deep connection to the outdoors is what drives the company toward greater product innovation and better, more sustainable production practices. Croakies has consistently raised the bar in creating industry-leading products coupled with unique prints and patterns to turn the ordinary into extraordinary for those hitting the water, the trail, the beach or anywhere in between.

Today, Croakies is much more than just a strap to hold your eyewear on, though. The brand is home to a broad collection of industry-leading retention products including eyewear retainers, belts and dog collars and leashes. From their technical, adjustable system to keep your earbuds safe and untangled to guitar straps and lanyards for any use, Croakies creates stylish, durable and functional products for active people.

On behalf of all of us at Coastal Angler, thanks Croakies for saving our shades and keeping us dialed in while on the water for the past 40 years.

For a complete overview of the 2018 Croakies collection, head over to croakies.com or follow the brand on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter using @Croakies.

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he 11th Annual Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo, an action-packed water sports expo for watersport enthusiasts of all ages, returns to the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center April 14-15.

Produced by Sheri Daye, a world-record spearfishing diver, the Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo is South Florida’s premier water sports expo. Daye crafted the expo to be both educational and entertaining. Attendees can learn from renowned speakers about the latest techniques, shop cool products and socialize with like-minded ocean lovers.

Spanning 65,000 square feet, the indoor event attracts upwards of 5,000 attendees and more than 150 exhibitors specializing in freediving, scuba, spearfishing, paddleboarding, adventure travel and more. The event also features one of the most extensive marine art and underwater photography exhibits in the country. This year, the expo has added a brand new hook-and-line fishing section.

Several educational seminars, taught by world-class experts and celebrity-speakers like TV personality Manny Puig, Gatorboy Chris Gillette, and others, are scheduled throughout the weekend and are open to anyone who wants to attend.

In addition, daily interactive workshops hosted by industry experts offer proven techniques and tips including speargun rigging, lionfish preparation and sampling, knot-tying for fishermen, fish filleting demos, yoga sessions and more. The popular Kids Zone will offer free face painting, art classes and crab races. The Blue Wild offers activities for the whole family to enjoy.

“What began as a small charity event has evolved over the past 11 years and flourished into an exciting, must-attend event,” said Daye.

“For marine art fans, we truly have one of the country’s most impressive collections—from the world-renowned to the local scene, with artists such as Carey Chen, Pascal Lecocq, Michelle Brener and many more.”

Returning exhibitors include Austin’s, OMER, Mares, PADI, Chaos Fishing, Florida Freedivers, Papa’s Pilar, Wong Spearguns and many more. The Expo is pleased to welcome several new exhibitors such as Shimano, Custom Rod & Reel, SeaHunter Boats, Laser Tools Co, Reel Addictive Charters, Sporty Girl Apparel and Scubotics. Adding to the excitement, the Expo also has state-of-the-art water toys, kayaks and Contender Boats.

The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo is known for its high-energy crowds and fun vibe. The diverse crowd includes visitors, experts and exhibitors from all over the world who flock to Fort Lauderdale for its desirable and central location. Water-lovers can also take advantage of the year-round tropical weather and warm waters.

Entry is $20 at the door and includes a free goodie bag (while supplies last) and free entry to the Saturday night After-Party at the Fort Lauderdale Beach Courtyard Marriott.

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pparently there are more dangerous critters than gators to worry about when paddling Florida’s rivers. Last month, reports of a rampaging river otter emerged out of Manatee County, and the culprit appeared to have been targeting kayakers.

According to the Bradenton Herald, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed multiple reports of aggressive otter encounters over two days on a stretch of the Braden River in Manatee County.

The first was received Saturday, March 3, when two kayakers reported being bitten by an otter. The next day, Sunday March 4, two more kayakers reported being attacked by an otter. The second day’s encounters occurred about 2 miles from the previous attack.

One of the victims, Sue Spector, 77, was interviewed by Fox 13 News after receiving stitches and rabies treatments as a result of the attack. “… I heard someone make a comment that, ‘Oh, there’s an otter!”

Spector told Fox 13. “And then all of a sudden he jumped on my kayak and two seconds later he jumped on me.”

According to the report, the animal clawed, scratched and bit Spector’s arms, nose and ear. Her kayak flipped and a lifejacket and hat saved Spector from sustaining additional injury as her husband and other kayakers in the group fended the otter off with paddles.

FWC posted warning fliers at nearby boat ramps, but the terror might have already ended, as there are reports the otter might also have had a run-in with an alligator.

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TAKE A KID

CORY GURMAN

A

s winter gives way to spring, anglers from all over begin to experience one of the best times of the year to get out fishing. Many of the easiest and unsuspected places to fish can be right out your front door, leading kids of all levels to connect with a wide variety of fish. There is likely good, fishable water within walking or biking distance of where you live.

Many golf course ponds and retention ponds produce big bass and good numbers of fish in the 3- to 4-pound range. While most ponds will hold fish, the most productive ones will have structure to protect fish from predators as well as give shade during the day.

Overhanging trees, grass and bushes are all things to look for.

One of my favorite ways to catch these bass is by hooking a plastic worm through the middle of its body (wacky worm) and letting it flutter weightless to the bottom near the structure. An occasional gentle twitch will attract attention, and bent rods will be sure to follow.

Surf fishing, another favorite of mine, is a fun and easy way to catch dinner while enjoying a beautiful view. Fish travel all along the surf in search of a meal, but if you can concentrate your efforts where the bait is congregating, you will greatly improve your odds of hooking up.

Birds diving into the surf is a sure sign that bait is in the area.

Find diving birds, and you’ve found a great place to set up. Advanced techniques and high-end gear aren’t mandatory for novice anglers to put some good eating fish on the table. A 10-foot rod, a reel sized similar to a 6500 Penn Spinfisher (spooled with 20lb. mono) and a sand spike will be your basic set up. As far as tackle goes, I use a pompano rig or fish finder rig above a sputnik weight, all of which can be found at almost any tackle shop. For bait, shrimp and clams are good all-around choices. When I use

clams, I generally place them in kosher salt beforehand to toughen them up. Whiting, black drum, the occasional redfish and the ever-tasty pompano are some of the fish you can expect to catch this time of year.

To be better prepared for your next fishing adventure, I highly encourage you to tap into the wealth and resources found on the Web. Surf fishing Florida (www. surfishingflorida.com) and other local forums are great ways to find where the fish are running. A search on YouTube will further address some of the things I’ve talked about, and with a visual aspect, you will be well on your way to enjoying the great outdoors.

Cory Gurman is a freshman at Ponte Vedra High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Besides reveling in the great outdoors, Cory enjoys spending time with his three golden retrievers and rooting for the Atlanta Braves. Follow him on Instagram @fishhunter1119.

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aggressive and virtually every species that inhabit our waters are ‘on board’. The challenge for the first half of March was to be persistent and spend the time on the water earning the catch, as nothing comes easy. Warmer water temperatures, stronger and higher tides brought out the better in fishing during the back half of March. Snook, a year around species was the inshore target for many anglers. Some anglers brought

by Capt. Terry Fisher out the shark and tarpon gear. anuary fishing in SW Florida April should be fantastic based on water level forecasts, proved to be ‘tuff-going’, to temperatures and bait availability. Tarpon and shark are say the least. Winter winds and here in good numbers. Snook is in season, seatrout are big weather brought out the worst and redfish on the move. The ‘stage’ is set for your ‘fish of a and made scheduling charters lifetime’. Recommendations for equipment and techniques for very hard, not to mention each species are as follows: targeting and catching fish.

Tarpon/Shark; during April (early in the tarpon season), Many of my charter departures I like to target both species at the same time by utilizing an were delayed until midday to 8ft. rod with a minimum 15/30lb. butt rating. 6000-8000 give things a chance to warm series reel. 65lb. test line, with 80 to 100lb. leader anywhere up. Nevertheless, some of my from 6ft. to 7ft. long (the leader should be the size of the fish more ‘gungy’ clients (young one expects to catch). Use size 6/0 to 8/0 hooks. Fish live or and old) were insistent on dead bait (Pinfish, Mullet, Crab, Catfish Fillets, Ladyfish) braving the cold and windy suspended under a cork or on the ‘bottom’ behind an conditions, forcing me to anchored boat or troll them slowly. Look for ‘rolling’ schools find locations with sufficient of Tarpon off the beaches anywhere from 1500 yards to 6 water levels and lower wind miles out. They will be heading (migrating) northward and velocities, to accomplish the ultimate objective of ‘catching fish’. the shark will follow. Get in front of them a let them come I enjoyed every moment of the challenge, as did they! to you. Be quiet! Seek out a Tarpon Club and join for more Conversely, February brought out the best in things with information, specific locations and techniques (that is what I near to record warm temperatures that enabled many charters to did when I got started). experience a variety of opportunities both inshore and offshore. Snook; 7’6”rod with maximum of 10/20lb. butt rating or Throughout the month, inshore species such as sheepshead, a lighter, 7ft. rod length with minimum 8/17lb. butt rating.

Spanish mackerel, pompano, large seatrouts came on with a Equip with 3000 to 4000 series reel. 15lb. test line with vengeance similar to that of springtime. Offshore (37-40 ft. of 30lb. leader. Size 1/0 to 2/0 hook. Free-line live pilchards, water), tripletail, mangrove, vermillion/lane snappers and white threadfins, pinfish or shrimps. Cut baits include pinfish, grunts provided the action. Further offshore waters (50-60 ft.) ladyfish and small blue crabs or cut crabs. One may also place offered up bigger red grouper, larger snappers and porgies. By live and dead baits on seabed under mangroves or suspend the end of February, reports that schooling tarpon were on the under a cork with a short leader. Artificial baits include soft scene. White baits showed up in good numbers and sizes for plastics (scented or unscented), top water, twitch and crank those with the knowledge and willingness to throw the cast baits along canal walls, under docks, around mangroves and net. Pilchards proved to be the more perfect bait for Spanish oyster bars. Fish incoming and outgoing tides. mackerel, while live shrimp suspended under a cork, was a close Redfish: 7’-7’3”rod with 8/17lb. butt rating. Equip second. There were a lot of Spanish mackerel caught around with 3000-3500 series reels. 30lb. leader and 1/0-2/0 hook the Sanibel Lighthouse, Redfish and Captiva Passes. Spanish size. Jumbo shrimps, cut pinfish and ladyfish are great mackerel love artificial presentations such as spoons and Gotcha presentations on incoming tides along oyster bars and lures. Unfortunately, that is a very expensive way to fish for mangroves. The baits may them, as they will bite the leader (instead of the lure) more times also be placed on the seabed than not. February was a ‘Million Dollar’ month in regards or under a cork. Artificial, to weather conditions and fishing opportunities that most include weed less soft February’s will not offer. plastics, top water and gold The first half of March had a spoons. lot to be desired as a result of Seatrout: 7ft. rod with the ‘Nor-Easter’s that swept the 8/17 butt rating, 2500-3000 continent bringing with them, series reels. 10lb. test line. three cold fronts. North and Attach popping cork to main east winds created havoc on line. Attach 20lb. leader water levels, restricting access below the cork and suspend to most inshore locations. a shrimp above (close to) As always, cold temperatures the seabed (turtle grasses), had an adverse effect on the for best and most consistent fish bite. Most fish moved to results. different locations (not out of the area) from those of This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters at www.fishfacecharters.

February. Notwithstanding, com. Call 239-357-6829 or email fishfacecharters@yahoo.com for charter March in SW Florida is the reservations. I am also available as ‘Captain for Hire’ on your vessel (by the beginning of spring and as hour) for safety, navigational and fishing locations and techniques to insure your every fishing trip is a success. always, the fish are more

Fantastic Fishing on the Horizon

J

2 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

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onita Tackle specializes in designing unique custom rods for the discerning fisherman. Recently Shug Clawson, owner and builder, asked one of his customers why he preferred a custom-built rod to a standard one. The gentleman asks if he could send him his thoughts via email.

Below is the letter that was sent.

“I was asked recently, ‘Why do I fish using my custom-made rods?’ Rods and reels with assorted other equipment catch fish, so why a custom rod? The first thing that came to mind- they just work better. After fishing a long day with my custom rod my arm is not near as tired as when I use a standard reel and rod combination. There is always the pride in having a custom rod with my graduate school colors in evidence. Having a rod made with superior materials has thus far kept working even after, as fishermen, we are often less than kind to our equipment.

When I had my first one-piece custom rod made I wanted it balanced and married to my new reel. When I purchased my second two-piece custom rod, I again wanted the same perfect match. After a good fishing buddy found out that my second rod was purchased by my wife as a birthday present his comment was, “I wish my wife would buy me something like that,” they make great gifts. At one time, I had better than 15 other rods plus my custom rods, now I have just the two freshwater custom rods. It was not that the other rods did not work; it is they don’t work as well. I am presently having a salt water rod made to my specifications. Custom cars, custom shoes, custom golf clubs speak for them-selves, they just work better and last longer. On the days you get skunked, why not at least look good.”

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Fishing with Bella

I

by Capt. Mike Grispo

want to share an experience I had in late February, with a couple and their young daughter Isabella. We caught an inshore slam and a variety of other species of fish and I'm sure by the end of the day, we were pushing 50 or more fish.

Fishing in inshore offers anglers miles of mangrove shorelines and estuaries that are home to all of our favorite target species. With temperatures warming up a little early this year, we find ourselves immersed right back into our favorite style of fishing: live baiting. Pilchards are my bait of choice and with a few throws of the net, my livewell was full and ready to go.

The first spot I chose had a pretty deep edge along the mangroves, with a creek mouth at the end. I whipped a dozen or so baits out with my chum bat and instantly they were getting devoured by hungry snook! Mom and Dad both had a snook in the boat after ten minutes!

So now it was Isabella's turn. I use 7' rods and 3000 series sized reels when we are catching medium-sized snook, so I was a little worried it might be tough for her. I cast the bait out for her and told her where to place her hands and before I could finish, whack! That rod tip bent over and her smile lit up! Game on! I helped her, by holding

the rod tip up, and she managed to reel it in without having to move from her seat. After I released it, she was ready for another. After a couple more snook for everybody, I made one last cast for Bella and she landed a 19" redfish, almost unassisted!

My next spot was a deep channel that had quite a bit of boat traffic for a Friday, but the trout were hungry and they didn’t seem to mind! We caught several nice ones for the dinner table and hung out there for an hour or so catching trout, snook and Jack Crevalle, one after another. After battling a big Jack Crevalle with her father for ten minutes, Isabella was shaking the hurt out of her wrists!

We had a blast catching fish for about 4 hours, then the tide slowed down and it was time to call it a day. I took them back to the dock, cleaned their catch and gave them my recommendation to a local restaurant that would prepare their meal. Seeing Isabella’s excitement catching all those fish is the reason why I became a guide in the first place.

If you are staying in the area around Southwest Florida and would like to book a trip, visit my website at www.inshoreexcursions.com or call 239-292-3807Make a memory, Captain Mike Grispo

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 5

Responsibility a Must When Mixing Boating and Alcohol

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by Dave Sully

everal recent incidents on the waters of Lee County should Sconsequences once again ramp up awareness of the potentially lethal of the misuse of alcohol when boating. Virtually

all of them could have been prevented if the parties involved had exercised even a modicum of responsibility. In a perfect world, no one would think to operate a vessel after having consumed even a small amount of alcohol, which can cloud judgment.

Moreover, anyone on a boat where drinking is occurring may be prone to unwanted consequences.

In some cases, the result of imbibing can be sublime, perhaps fostering false bravado which can induce a boater into trying things that may prove reckless. This is especially true when it comes to jet skis, where operators may travel at excessive speeds or attempt dangerous stunts.

Another effect can be compromised stability. One recent fatality was believed to have been caused when a man, who had been out on the town, was returning to his live-on boat in his dinghy. He apparently lost his balance and fell into the Matanzas Bay. His body washed ashore the next day, as did the dinghy.

In another instance, a man under the influence died when he instinctively dove into the water to retrieve an anchor which had suddenly separated from its line. The water was only three feet deep and he suffered a broken neck.

Excessive drinking, which, along with clouding judgment, makes the act of operating a vessel difficult, if not impossible.

Consider the case involving a kayaker under the influence who ventured out at night in a dark colored craft, with no lights and no life jacket, ostensibly to go fishing. When he did not return, a search by authorities produced the kayak but not the occupant, whose body was found the next day.

Also, last month a boater, operating erratically, was finally stopped by Lee County Marine Unit Deputy Alan Bryant after ignoring lights, followed by lights and siren. Bryant ultimately had to pull alongside and order the man to heave-to. Under the law, he was then arrested for refusing to be tested for his blood alcohol level.

The above are a sampling of what can happen when alcohol is part of the boating equation. It behooves anyone aboard a vessel where alcohol is being consumed to realize the consequences of doing so and exercise good judgment. Remember, you are not only putting yourself and other occupants of the boat at risk, but also the innocent boating public, who are out to enjoy the area’s waterways with the reasonable expectation that they are safe.

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Changeover Month

by Capt. Sam O’Briant

W

e are now entering the second month of our annual spring change over. Things are starting to set up for the summer months in Pine Island Sound but we still have a few weeks of changing the guard.

Even though tarpon seem to have moved into the sound in March the vast majority of them should start showing up this month. Along with the tarpon schools you can expect to occasionally run into a large shark or two. The hammerheads and bull sharks tend to follow the tarpon schools.

Yes, it is stated that we have the world’s best tarpon fishing in Boca Grande Pass. However, if you do not want to get involved with the hordes of boats that drift that pass, you will find that Captiva and Redfish Passes are just as productive. How should you fish for tarpon? If you are drifting the passes, run a live bait under a cork and get in with the fleet. When you see the tarpon rolling remember there are maybe ten times as many below the surface as you see on top.

Another way of fishing for them is to anchor along the west side of the channel just north of St. James City. Here you can either use live bait (large) or cut bait soaked on the bottom. Catfish, ladyfish, or mullet are preferred choices. With this, just throw your line out and sit back. Check your baits every 20 or 30 minutes and put on fresh ones. With the bait on the bottom you can expect to also catch some large catfish or sharks.

Whatever your choice way of fishing, as a friend once put it, “tarpon fishing is 8 hours of pure boredom followed by maybe 15 minutes of pure ecstasy if you are lucky”.

We still have the schools of king and Spanish mackerel passing off the coast, headed north to the panhandle and Louisiana.

While snook season is in full swing, the larger sheepshead have moved offshore and trout are still over the grass. Enjoy the changeover month

Capt. Sam is a local licensed guide for hire who may be reached at 239-994-1495 or captainobriant@gmail.com FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 7

Mr. Twister Baits

by Dan Carns any of you have M heard the name Mister Twister, long-time

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player in the freshwater fishing world and inventor of the curly tail grub, but did you know they offer an exciting saltwater line as well. The new Exude line of saltwater plastics offers an exciting choice of plastics for those of us that love artificial lures.

This bait is scented with fish food and releases a scent trail when it hits the water and also has a very slippery surface, so that it feels like food when a fish picks it up.

We’ve all had those days when fish short strike a lure or pick up and drop a lure immediately and the built-in flavor and feel change all that.

Here in SW Florida we have three main species that everyone is chasing, snook spotted sea trout, and redfish and they all eat shrimp. I present the Exude artificial shrimp two ways; rigged on an 1/8 oz. jig head or a weighted twistlock hook. I love one feature about this shrimp, it stands on its head when dropped to the bottom so that the tail is up and keeps the hook out of the grass. Slow twitch and reel seems to elicit the most strikes from redfish, a steady retrieve just above the turtle grass triggers a trout bite, and while presented under a dock this bait elicits that explosive snook hit. My go-to colors for this 3 1/2” shrimp are Natural and Golden Bream, both have a ton of reflective sparkle and really show up under dark water conditions or night time fishing.

My next favorite soft plastic is the Exude 5” RT Slug. You can cast this thing a country mile or sling it directly under the mangrove edge, rigged weedless on a twist lock hook, and simply drag it slowly through the roots where the redfish and snook are hanging and out into open water. Slowly twitched and reeled this thing loops and darts like a wounded bait fish and really triggers a strike. I love to chase redfish in really shallow water, rigged weedless, simply drag it slowly though the grass and watch them turn in pursuit. Just a reminder that these are big predators and won’t expect this bait fish to slow down so keep up the speed and even increase just a little as though its escaping. Due to our tannin stained water I’ve found that Chicken on a Chain gets the most action followed by New Penny and Baby Bass.

I have a lot of other plastic baits in my arsenal but have found Mister Twister to be the most consistent and reliable soft plastic bait!

It’s a wild world-get out there! Fishman Dan, Gulf Coast Kayak, 4120 Pine Island Rd NW, Matlacha, FL 33993, (239) 283-1125

8 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Boat, RV & Trailer Service Sales & Storage

Causa Palooza

by Mike Hammond For many local paddlers, Calusa Palooza marks the beginning of paddle racing season in Florida.

Three years ago, this race was created by the College of Life Foundation with three goals in mind: Raise money to get under-serviced youth out on the water; promote Koreshan State Park; and have fun.

One of the best things about this race is that anyone can participate. All of the short course (four miles) and most of the long course (eight miles) are on the Estero River. This is a slow-moving body of water that is protected from the wind. I have been in several races where wind is a major factor and can frustrate newbies, as well as experienced paddlers. That is not likely to happen on the calm waters of the Estero River.

Also, all craft are welcome. SUPs seem to make up the majority of vessels, but kayaks, canoes, OC-1s and surf-skis have all participated. (Note: Estero River Outfitters supplies the vessels.) Not comfortable standing on an SUP? That’s fine, paddle a kayak or get a friend to join you in a canoe for a tandem race. The idea is to get out and have fun.

Nobody demonstrates the “just have fun” attitude better than the kids. The Calusa Kids’ Race is a free quarter-mile race. While it is labeled as “twelve and under,” we have run an additional race to accommodate teens who just wanted to give it a try.

“Participation” medals are not handed out, but there are so many classes (age, gender, vessel type) that all kids have earned the opportunity to hear their name called, to stand on the podium, and to receive a medal. If a child is too nervous to paddle by themselves, a parent may paddle with them tandem.

After the race, paddlers are given lunch, win door prizes, receive awards and just relax in the park. Koreshan State Park is a great place to camp if you choose to make a weekend out of it.

This year Calusa Palooza (April 7, 2018) will have the extra excitement of being filmed for an episode of “Facing Waves,” which will air on the Fox Sunsports and Outside channels.

Whether you are an experienced competitive paddler or someone looking for their first race, Calusa Palooza is a great race for a great cause. For more information or to register for Calusa Palooza, go to https://paddleguru.com/races/ CalusaPalooza2018

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For more information about Calusa Blueway Paddling Trails, events, and launch sites, please visit https://www.facebook.com/TheGreatCalusaBlueway/ . Mike Hammond is based in Fort Myers, FL and is a staff member at Lee County Parks & Recreation. He is the Calusa Blueway coordinator for Lee County.

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 9

Waterkeeper Rangers

by John Cassani

The Calusa Waterkeeper is recruiting volunteers to become part of the Waterkeeper Ranger program. Rangers survey area waters looking for algae blooms, fish kills, illicit discharges and fish and wildlife issues. Basic monitoring equipment is provided.

However, for those who want to do more, they are welcome to obtain more sophisticated equipment. Observations are reported to the Calusa Watekeeper for developing a database of important information for the water resource or directly to the appropriate agency if representing an emergency situation. Volunteer Rangers are trained through the Ranger Academy consisting of three classes of about an hour each on Saturday mornings.

There is no fee for the training or previous experience required.

The typical volunteer is a boater or owner of a paddle craft that enables access to the water. The dates for the next Ranger Training Academy are April 14, 28 and May 12. The classes are held in Fort Myers at the Calusa Nature Center. For more information or to sign up for the Academy training, contact the Waterkeeper at cassani@calusawaterkeeper.org. Missed Academy classes can be made up at the next Academy training.

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For more information call John at 239-444-8584 or visit us on Facebook or on the web at www.calusawaterkeeper.org.

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fantasy baseball league this season. I guess the moral of this fishing story is, do good in life to help others and you’ll be rewarded with amazing experiences with new friends.

Baseball and Fishing

by Capt. James Marko

f you’re from the Lee County area then you know every IMinnesota February through March we have the Boston Red Sox and Twins spring training in our area. I donate a couple

charters every year to help raise money for our local children’s hospital here in Ft. Myers. The charity event where they auction one of my trips is with the Red Sox Organization at a local golf event with the actual players. This year one of the players bid on the trip and won it for almost $3000! When I found all this out, I was extremely humbled. The pitcher who bought my trip was Rick Weems. He brought along Austin Maddox, Trevor Kelly and Chandler Shepherd. If you’re a huge Sox fan like myself you know this will most likely be our whole pitching rotation within the next few seasons. I couldn’t believe how down to earth, good hearted and cool they all were. They wanted something big to go back and show the locker room, so of course I went to my ace fish; the Goliath Grouper. We started the day by targeting jacks because I was waiting for a certain tide for the Goliath to bite.

To be honest, this is kind of like living a dream of mine; fishing with Red Sox players. Half my man-cave is Red Sox memorabilia and the other half is fishing stuff.

We were on restricted time because of their practice schedule, so the pressure to get my job done was high. We had only four jacks, one per player is what I said. You could tell these guys were just happy catching snook, jacks and lady fish, but I wanted that trophy picture for them to brag about in the locker room.

We rolled up to my spot and it seemed like a perfect storm, not knowing what we were about to get into. I was just hoping for one hook-up, but these guys got all the big girls to eat on all of the jacks. Austin dropped first and hooked into a stud that broke us off after about 5 mins. Shepherd dropped second and had the hook straightening out on him, but a lot longer of a fight. I could tell they just weren’t turning the head of the fish quick enough to get them to give up. TK dropped third, got the fish all the way up to the boat, but the line got tangled up in the trolling motor and snapped. So now everything I was stressing about has become a reality, besides getting poured on. Here I am, wanting to land this fish more than them, so I can have my moment of victory in my mind. I gave every piece advice I had to the biggest/last dude on the boat, Rick Weems. Bottom of the 9th, 2 outs, tying run on third, full count and I’m at bat. I’m not saying I was Big Papi or anything, but boy did we get it done! Rick hooked-up on this stud and once I had the boat in position, I ran up to help him with the fight. We played tug of war for about 10 mins and when she came up I knew I just had my walk-off moment.

Remember to follow us on Instagram @captjamesmarko & FB https://www. facebook.com/james.markovits?fref=search for our daily catches. Check out our website as well at www.Goliathfishing.com for trip information and contact information.

We took the fish to the beach to conduct the study I do for Fish and Wildlife, to obtain knowledge on the Goliath Grouper species. After some measurements and a fin sample, we named her “Fenway”. We had a crowd around us on the beach, so I had to get a couple quick pictures, but wasn’t trying to make a scene.

After two quick pictures, I let Weems swim the fish off, which he described as “swimming with a dinosaur”. On the boat, we had a moment together on the ride back, going over every single minute of the whole Goliath experience. Well, wouldn’t you know we’ve become best friends it seems, from the experience.

I’ve spent this whole spring training hanging out with the team and getting to know them as individuals. We’ve shared a lot of laughs in such a short amount of time, I oughta dominate my FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 11

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Give It A Try

by Capt. Bart Marx s we approach summer months, snook are a great target A species. Snook are in pre-spawn mode. They start to decide if they will travel from their home area and move from

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rivers and creeks to open larger bodies of water. All snook do not spawn every season. Shrimp too, will have started their migration out to the gulf and the whitebait, greenbacks, pilchards, etc. will be up to the freshwater lines in the rivers.

This is great for snook looking to add pounds to go to their spawn areas.

You can harvest some of the baits mentioned earlier with cast nets. The majority of the guides I fish around use a 10’ 3/8” bait net. Most of us have some kind of dry or wet chum to draw these baits into casting range. I have used cat food, corn meal, oatmeal, and some other mixtures. The oil we use is menhaden and a little goes a long way. You need to have a good live well.

This means it is able to pick up raw water from outside your boat, be able to pump it to a tank on your boat with rounded corners, and a drain that will allow the water to drain back outside your boat. Some like to have a sprayer to spray on the water to give more air to your bait. I personally like it to be under the water and creating a current, as this helps keep your bait alive too. The current keeps the fish from bumping their nose on the sides of your well and killing them. A simple way to build a live well is with a plastic garbage can. If you have a sea water wash down hose, you fill it with that. Then you create a drain where the water can drain back overboard. Although I still bring live shrimp, so I have an option of baits.

Let’s take a look at what is happening out in the Gulf; snapper, lanes and mangs, porgies, black sea bass, and maybe a hogfish. Hogfish like crustaceans; small crabs and shrimp.

While you are bottom fishing, put a bonus rod out with a live bait, blue runner, or pinfish, anything alive with some wire. Set it where it is out of your way to bottom fish and leave the drag a little on the loose side, but tight enough to bury the hook. A bobber of some sort about six feet up from the hook will hold the bait at that depth. When you hear the drag go off, you will understand why they call kings smokers.

Phone: (239) 283-4843 Fax: (239) 282-8451 Sales: Ron@sunsetdreams.com Service: Mark@sunsetdreams.com

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Get out there and give these things a try, or if you don’t have a boat you can contact Capt. Bart Marx at 941-979-6517 or captbart@alphaomegacharters.com And always remember singing drags and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{

14 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Your Best Shot

by Wayne Nichols othing like spring in South Florida! Osceola turkey season is N in full swing, hogs are out everywhere, fishing is on fire, the weather is warming up and stabilizing, endless ways to have a

great time! Here at Red Eye we’re focusing on the Osceola’s, with hunters coming in and out every couple days, it’s our busy time of year here and yes, we’re still doing alligator and hog hunts at the same time. We’ve got plenty of tags coming in for gators already and a hog hunt makes a great addition to any hunt. I’ve lost count of how many we’ve already taken this season, but it’s still on fire. These hunts absolutely wear us out, waking up at 4am, picking hunters up at 5am, running the woods all day til dark and roosting birds for the next day. I’m lucky to have some of the best and most reliable guides in SoFlo to help, not to mention the captains on the water.

An average morning is sitting in the woods well before daylight. Bugs haven’t been too bad, yet. About the time the sun rises, we’re listening to the sounds of Osceola’s gobbling from a tree in the distance. That’s when you start getting fired up, the anticipation is intense! A few yelps and cackles and they’re usually on their way! They fly down, break into their strut gobbling and putting on a show! The hunters then continue softly calling to them, coaxing them into range for a shot. Once he’s close enough and the hunter is confident he can make a clean shot we give them the go ahead, BOOM turkey down!

That’s what it’s all about!

Our species of turkey is the highly-coveted Osceola. These are highly rewarding hunts for serious turkey hunters and the novice alike. The Osceola is the “Crown Jewel” of the turkey slam, and the only place you can find them is in Florida, leaving a high demand around the world for guides and outfitters. There are several WMA’s that offer turkey hunting, some walk in, some draw quotas. Hiring guides can get expensive, from $1250 to from to $3000, putting in for a draw permit is your best bet for success if you can’t hire a guide. Hiring a guide is your best chance at getting your bird by far, as most average a 75% success rate on private land. Public opportunities usually fall down to 35% with success at about 15%.

If you have any questions about hunting down here, need information on booking a hunt or would like to know more about what we offer, give me a call anytime at 863-990-7650. I’m heading back in the woods now y’all stay safe and remember to take a kid hunting or fishing anytime you get a chance!

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 15

Looking Forward to Great Fishing

by Capt. Dave Stephens

he great thing about T April is that winter has come to an end. I’m not

saying that we can’t have a freak cold front come through, but highly unlikely.

Snook are making their way out from the deeper water haunts where they’ve been hanging close. The barrier islands have been holding good numbers of fish. On higher water, points have been holding a lot of fish. Tide flow will be very important to locating fish on points. On lower water, focus on pot holes on the flats. Live bait has been getting the best action. Baits such as pilchards, herring, also pinfish will get the job done. The legal length for snook is 28-33”, a slot due to the fact that most snook over 33” are females. Also, these guys spawn during the summer months. Keep that in mind when you catch that “almost over slot” fish that it’s a very good chance it’s a female fish that’s getting full of roe.

The trout bite has been the most consistent over the last couple weeks. With the cooling and warming water these guys have still been feeding very well. On a recent half-day charter, we had 12 fish over 20”. The biggest that morning measured 27” and we let that big girl go to make baby’s. Pot holes on the closer to the bars have been holding a majority of the fish. On higher tides the flats with sand and grass mix have been the better bite. If Mother Nature throws us a curve ball, look over solid grass for trout where the bigger fish will be looking to warm up. Live baits such as pilchards and herring have got the best bites. Shrimp fished under a popping cork will also get the job done. For you artificial guys looking for a top-water bite, this is a great time. This is one of my favorite times of the year to catch big trout on top water. Drifting the flats, fan casting will get the job done.

As the water temps keep rising, keep your eye out for some of our migratory fish. Birds such as terns and seagulls are great indicators for schooling Spanish mackerel. These guys are often overlooked as great game fish. For a 2-3- pound fish, they put up a great fight and are not bad on the grill. The key is to prepare these guys fresh.

Mackerel are a little bit more oily than other fish, so they don’t freeze well. However, if prepared fresh, are excellent table fare. Look forward to great fishing, the water temps are rising and the fish are biting.

If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida’s finest fishing, give us a call, 941-916-5769 or send an email to capt.dstephens@comcast.net. All of our charters are private and customized to fit you and your party’s needs. Capt. Dave Stephens, www.backbayxtremes.com

16 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Rods not Remotes “Reel Life”

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by Misty Wells

s we all sit back and take a look around for the next generation out on the water what do we see? I mostly see the tops of kid’s heads as they all look down at their tablets and phones. Most of the kids nowadays are involved in posting 300 selfies daily on their Instagram’s and Snapchats, but what are they posting, they don’t do anything but post? What can we do to make some changes in these kids’ lives, get them outside and engaged in Reel Life?

So, you may ask why fishing?

So far, after taking over 2,000 foster kids fishing, I have never been with one child that did not laugh and have the best time of their lives catching their first fish. Fishing is such an even playing ground for anyone because you don’t have to be the fastest, strongest, smartest or even have any experience. We as adults also have to slow down and take the time to put a line in the water and take a kid fishing, but make sure to avoid some common mistakes that turn kids off to fishing.

First off, don’t wait until they are a certain age, if they can hold a small rod and reel take them out for a bit and get them started early. Kids have a short attention span especially if the fishing is slow, so be sure not to stay too long unless the kids don’t want to leave. Try and make their fishing experiences easy, don’t target hard to catch species, go for a species that offers a lot of action. You’re in luck, as size does not matter and remember their measure of success is different than ours, let them have fun no matter what they catch. I have been with kids that reel up a piece of the bottom and they laugh so hard and want a picture of their rockfish, make it fun. Do not be impatient; so what if they tangle the line, so what if they lose their bait a million times, that happens to me a lot more than I want to admit. Remember to teach them right away, as they are learning about safety and conservation, they are the future of our fisheries, they need to protect it. Give them a sense of accomplishment and ownership and explain why they are releasing that fish and why we leave our fishing spot better than we found it. Teach them to also tie a hook, bait a hook, net a fish and release a fish- don’t do everything for them, nobody likes that. I love it so much when I am with the foster kids and some of the kids that fished with me before, start to help the new kids, as it gives them self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

There are so many organizations and ways to take kids fishing.

The easiest is if you have a kid or two, take them and let them bring a friend. I have a great non-profit that takes kids in group foster care fishing yearround called “A Reel Future”.

Donate and volunteer with us. There are kids with special needs, kids in a single parent home, kids on the wrong path that need a positive diversion and kids looking for anything fun to do. It is not hard to find an organization that you can be a part of for a day, week, or all year long. I promise you this, you will get way more out of it than you give. I have taken over 2,000 kids fishing so far and I am not stopping anytime soon! Come join the “Reel Life” with me. www.areelfuture.com

Misty Wells Host of the National Radio & TV show “Let’s Take It Outside” airing on the Pursuit Channel 2018. Outdoor Pro –Writer & Adventure Guide for Fishing & Hunting trips. Founder of “A Reel Future for show info or be a guest go to www.mistywells.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 17

Follow the Water Temperature

by Fishin’ Frank What is the perfect bait? Are there any rules about bait? Which stay constant or true? Not really, but possibly - what’s the best bait for fishing the flats? We need to look at water temps to answer that. Why? Well everything affects everything; say for instance the weather this year is a lot like last year, there is no El-Niño or La-Niña in the Pacific Ocean- why is that important?

We are vulnerable to hurricanes. Yes, whenever there is either of those in play, all the way over in the Pacific Ocean, we might get one or two hurricanes that hit the U.S. Without the effects of El Niño or La-Niña we get a lot of storms. So, watch the weather, this year could be weird again. Weather affects us, bait, and fish.

It also affects what fish will eat.

Water temperatures affect the choice of bait. Much of it is how the fish react to temperature changes. A good rule of thumb is when water is under 70° shrimp and pinfish are good. Under 65°, shrimp is King of Baits. When the water is colder and fish being cold-blooded, they cannot digest food properly. Once it swallows the bait/food, the food can rot in their stomach before it can be digested. It takes warmth to digest. Shrimp seem to be easier for the fish to digest and it is about how many calories a fish uses, versus the calories of chasing down the meal. Florida fish are temperate zone fish and like us in the fall, they slow down just like we do as it gets cold.

Water from 70° to 75°, white bait or shrimp. Both will catch a lot of fish, equally well. Redfish will make you crazy- as it starts

to warm up again, they will, for some reason, just want pinfish or blue crabs. And once the water gets back to 80°, things change again.

Over 75° to 82° white bait is king. White bait is fast and shiny, so combine the warm water with oily food- the fish are in the mood for fun.

Over 85°, dead bait- dead shrimp or cut pieces of fish are the best king of baits. When the water gets too hot, the problem is low oxygen and when it is hard to breath, like a room that is over 100°, you have a hard time breathing, even gasping for air. Same thing for fish, so dead bait sitting sit on the bottom is easier for a fish to find, as it stinks more so they smell it and it’s easy to eat, as it is just sitting there.

So, the best bait for fishing the flats is the bait that’s best for the water and weather conditions. You will find people who say, you have to use this or that for bait. Well, they will have some good days and a lot of slower days. People who change the bait they are using, to fit the weather and temperatures, will have many more good days.

Good Luck and Have Fun Fishin frank

Fishing’ Franks Bait & Tackle 4425-D Tamiami Trail, Charlotte Harbor, FL 33980, 941-625-3888 and 14531 N. Cleveland Ave., Ft. Myers, FL 33903 239-634-1043

18 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Did you try taking Ryobi Reel that we introduced last month? I will talk about fishing line and hooks this month.

Reel and rod are important for fishing but fishing lines and hooks are also important tools that are indispensable. You can fish by using just a fishing line and hook, without reel or rod. It is so called hand fishing.

Many fishermen are still fishing this way.

You should not hesitate to spend a little bit more on lines and hooks and we recommend that you use excellent fishing lines and hooks.

As you all know, there are three kinds of fishing lines: monofilament, fluorocarbon and braided. The advantages and disadvantages overlap each other. Elasticity, strong memory and weak against UV are some of the disadvantages. Replacing every two months is also necessary. However, the advantage is putting less damage on the reel. The characteristics of fluorocarbon are their strength, great transparency and fast settlement. But there is less flexibility and moreover, their prices are high. Braided lines are excellent in durability and are popular

lines but they have their share of disadvantages that are not well known. First of all, you should be aware that braided lines are weaker than monofilament. Because each line of four or eight lines is very thin, it is easily damaged and vulnerable to friction. Consequently, when you are casting or reeling, it damages a hole on the rod. Because there is not much expanding and contraction, strong pressure is applied to the reel and the shaft of the reel is easily bent. Do you know that a fourth line, very different from the above three lines, is available now? The line is called Nanodax Crystal Lines. The material is nylon based and crystal processed by Nano technology. They have less memory and excellent transparency and are very strong. It is predominantly suitable for a main line. They are also inexpensive. The only drawback to this line is if you don’t tie it really tight, it might loosen easily. This is a revolutionary line. Hooks also have a very important role in fishing. If you don’t use a good fishing hook, even a person with great fishing technique has a high probability of losing a fish. Hooks that are made in Japan are best. A pure Japan-made hook has very high quality. If you use a hook with high quality you will be able to get satisfactory results. I have not seen Maruto Eagle Waver yet in Florida yet but I strongly believe that Maruto Eagle Wave is the

best hooks I have ever used. Perhaps you may be able to find Eagle Wave this summer.

There are many inexpensive but excellent quality products available in the world.

Don’t get caught in the past and have the right knowledge and enjoy fishing.

Bruce Andersen Captain Easy Charters Smuggler`s Cove Marina, Islamorada, Florida Tel: (305) 360-2120 Email: captbrucekey@comcast.net 20 years’ experience

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www.maruto-ryobi.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | APRIL 2018 | FORT MYERS 19

Dads Old Tackle Box

orig. box, 2 were in real nice shape, the other one would make a nice parts reel. The 4th reel was a small bait caster Ocean City model 2000 which looked really good. Now

by Dick Braun back to the lures, I looked through what was there ell, the blind squirrel found looking for missing paint, cracks in the paint, bad hardware, one! I received a phone call etc. Some good some bad, some had no real value and I just from a gentleman who said he had skipped over those. There were some old wood Heddon, Creek an old tackle box full of lures that Chub, Paw Paw and others. Well, I hemmed & hawed trying to had been in the attic for over 40 make a fair offer and then spit it out and he put out his hand years and just wanted it gone to to shake on the deal and I then knew it was mine and the trip someone who might appreciate what was worth it. I knew from past dealings that some of the items was in it. I ask if it was for sale and would at least pay me back what I had spent so now it was time the answer back was, yes. He just to start cleaning 40+ years of dirt and grime off of the finds. In wanted a fair price for it. We sat a doing some additional research, it became apparent that I did time to meet, as he and I were in different cities, made the date make a good buy and maybe a very good buy in the long run. and I drove to the meeting hoping it wasn’t a wild goose chase.

Most of these are just that, a wild goose chase! But it turned out See the 3 pictures attached: 1st is a Paw Paw frog, 2nd a Heddon Pumpkinseed that will show good on 1 side only, 3rd I’m still to be a pretty good trip as the tackle box was small but full of lures in the box and most, even though dirty, from 40+ years of trying to figure out who made this one. So, the hunt continues! just sitting there not catching fish were in surprisingly very good The last bit of info is there is going to be a regional FATC (Florida Antique Tackle Show) in Punta Gorda 8-9 June at the shape. There were 4 old casting reels and two split bamboo Punta Gorda Waterfront Hotel & Suites. Come see us, there will rods, one was a 2pc. Casting rod and the other was a 3/2 ninebe approx. 60 8ft tables full of vintage tackle for show and 4 sale! foot fly rod, both rods weren’t very good, as the 2pc. had been redone with no name on it anymore and the Florida Antique Tackle Collectors, Inc. is a non-profit, member supported 3/2 was missing about 3 organization registered in the State of Florida. The purposes of the Club are to snake guides. enhance and promote the collection, preservation and knowledge of old antique Oh well, so much for angling memorabilia and the history of tackle produced in Florida. FATC sponsors three exhibitions each year throughout the State of Florida. Club Members bring the rods, no real value.

Of the 4 casting reels, 3 historical displays from their collections of old fishing tackle and also bring old tackle to trade among themselves. The public is invited to attend these exhibitions of which were in their

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and encouraged to bring their own old tackle for free appraisals by Club Members.

20 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

the bar from Alligator Creek down past Pirate Harbor on the east side.

Out in the harbor, Spanish mackerel will be scattered all over the place.

Looking for birds is a great

by Capt. Mike Manis way to find schools of these t this point, we could find ourselves fishing anywhere from fast moving fish. The birds the backcountry to the beaches. As the water temperature hover over all the bait warms, bait will move into the harbor from offshore where it’s that’s being pushed to the been holding in the deeper more stable environment all winter. surface by the mackerel.

As a result, snook should begin staging up along shorelines Also, in the upper harbor, adjacent to creeks and cuts looking to fatten up after the slim we should begin to see pickings of winter. On the east side, anywhere from Ponce Park our first tarpon. These in Punta Gorda all the way down to the Big Dead Creek and are resident fish coming Buzzards Bay area outside Matlacha is good country. On the out of the rivers. They’ll other side of the harbor, the edge of Bull Bay where it intersects generally be somewhere in with both Gasparilla Sound and the vicinity of the 20 foot Turtle Bay can be good. hole. The numbers of ladyfish in the upper harbor probably

Redfish should be scattered have something to do with why the tarpon like to hang in the on the flats and I’ll look out in the area. In addition, I’ve seen schools of big jacks making their way open around sand holes as it’s not through this area. hot enough for them to be heading Typically, towards the end of the month we’ll start to look for for mangrove cover. Around the the first of the migratory tarpon working their way up the coast. intracoastal, anywhere from Stump My favorite way to set up for this is to anchor off Murdock Point Pass in Lemon Bay to Useppa in outside Johnson Shoals and just wait for something to come Pine Island Sound is a good bet. In down the pike. It’s all sight fishing and I’ll either throw fly or a addition, don’t be surprised if you live crab. The anchor is attached to a buoy for a quick release. run into spotted sea trout while Until next month, good tides. fishing for snook or redfish. Cobia Captain Michael Manis is a U.S.G.C. Licensed captain and has been teaching the is also an opportunity. In particular, sport of fly and light tackle angling since 2002. He lives in Punta Gorda, Florida and can be reached at www.puntagordaflycharters.com. keep an eye on the outer edge of

Spring Variety

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The Best Angler Photos From Southwest Florida!

Nice sea trout caught while out w/ Dan Carns of Gulf Coast Kayak in Matlacha

A 37 pound kingfish caught out of Venice w/ Capt. Tom Bailas Beauty of a kingfish caught with Capt. Tom of TnT Fishing Charters of Venice

Lloyd displaying his hard fought 25” Redfish with John, Mike, and John out on Captain Redfish Robs Charters in Naples, FL

Team Action Craft finds the reds in the shallows!

Peggy Anderson w/ a 41”, 27#, red caught 5 miles off San Carlos Pass, off FMB

Carie Caldwell from Naples, redfish 27”, 8 lbs., caught near Marco!

Photos submitted courtesy of: Capt. Bart Marx Capt. James Marko Capt. Larry Conley Capt. Mike Manis

Capt. Neil Eisner Capt. Terry Fisher Capt. Dave Stephens Captain Tom Bailas

24 FORT MYERS | APRIL 2018 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Marc Pantalone and fish dog Bethany w/ their 54” black tip caught 3 miles off Captiva Pass

Dave Gluyas from Naples with a 30” snook, caught near Goodland

Text your fish pics to 239-595-8265 or email them to camftmyers@gmail.com.

Please include your name, type, size, and location where fish was caught and we will do our best to get you on the board.

r spread

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ummer is just around the corner, and south Florida families will be spending more time on the water. From the bathtub to the open ocean, kids need to feel comfortable and confident about their in-water skills.

One of the most important lessons to remember is to use the buddy system. It’s one of the first things we teach young snorkelers during Pura Vida Divers’ Snorkel Summer Camp sessions. Campers know to stay within arm’s reach of their in-water buddy. When duck-diving under the surface, they practice one up, one down. This ensures someone is always alert and paying attention to their swimming partner.

At the beach, or when exploring snorkeling spots like the Blue Heron Bridge, show young swimmers where lifeguard stands are located, and point out swim zones that lifeguards patrol. Flags on the beach alert swimmers of the day’s conditions. It’s important that children understand what these flags mean and how conditions affect their experience in the water.

Another important consideration for in-water activities is identification of potentially harmful wildlife. During Pura Vida Divers’ Snorkel Camp, campers are taught to identify many local species.

They know how to spot a camouflaged scorpionfish, and which jellyfish to avoid. The knowledge is essential for a great experience in the water, and it also introduces children to a whole new world of animals.

Many kids get caught up in the excitement of seeing fish, rays, octopus and other interesting animals. The more confident they feel in their swimming skills, the more they can fully engage in enjoying their adventure.

The camp staff has found that the easiest way to introduce kids to snorkeling is to introduce one item at a time. It’s important to choose comfortable-fitting gear, rather than just grabbing a snorkel package off the shelf. Call Pura Vida Divers to set up an appointment for a mask, snorkel and fin fitting, or stop by the shop to chat with staff and learn the basics of choosing the right gear.

At Snorkel Summer Camp, we ensure campers are comfortable wearing their masks and looking underwater in shallow, standing water. Once they know how to put on their mask, where the strap should sit and how to use defog, we attach a snorkel and have them breathe first on land and then in water.

Once kids are comfortable using their mask and snorkel, it’s time to learn how to swim using fins. Even the most experienced kids can learn to be more efficient. It’s amazing to watch skills and comfort in the water blossom as kids conquer each new technique.

This summer, Pura Vida Divers will offer two sessions of Snorkel Summer Camp. We work with kids of all experience levels between the ages of 6 and 10. By the end of the week, even novice snorkelers are swimming alongside their parents during a family snorkeling event at the Blue Heron Bridge.

For more information, contact Pura Vida Divers at 561-8408750 or stop by the shop at 2513 Beach Court, Singer Island, 33404.

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ith a new U.S. Customs facility at Witham Field in Stuart, Fla., those travelling from the islands of the Bahamas will have a convenient place to clear customs in Martin County.

The Martin County Board of County Commissioners announced a late spring opening of the U.S. Customs Facility at Witham Field, which will process international travelers arriving in Martin County via aircraft and marine vessels, allowing boaters, pilots, residents and visitors to clear Customs without having to travel to Fort Pierce or West Palm Beach.

This project is the first intermodal clearance facility of its kind built in Florida.

This facility has been welcomed by the marine community not only in Martin County but throughout the State of Florida. With Stuart’s location on the east end of the Cross-Florida Canal/Okeechobee Waterway, boaters returning from the Bahamas will be able to conveniently clear back into the U.S. and continue on their way to Florida’s west coast and the Gulf of Mexico or continue to points north via the Intracoastal Waterway.

The Witham Field location is conveniently located within a 10-minute drive of 90 percent of the marinas in Martin County. This facility will greatly enhance Martin County’s tourism efforts, specifically in the recreational boating sector and related marine industries.

When complete, the facility will consist of a 3,210-squarefoot concrete block structure with road access for marine trailers, parking lot and a customer-friendly environment.

Funding for the project is provided through an 80/20 grant partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation Aviation (Multimodal) Division and the Airport Enterprise Fund. The facility will be operated by U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection. As it is with Witham Field, user fees will cover the cost of operations expenses.

The Customs facility at Witham Field is anticipated to open in May. Visit www.martin.fl.us for news and information. Follow Martin County on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MartinCountyBoardofCountyCommissioners/.

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Bimini Sands Resort And Marina To Host First Timers Flotilla

Bimini Sands Resort and Marina is on South Bimini, a mere 60 miles from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

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ith the beautiful islands of the Bahamas so close to the south Florida coast, many boaters and fishermen would love to make the crossing, but this adventure can be intimidating for the novice boater.

Bimini Sands Resort and Marina, located on South Bimini, will play host to a First Time, Fun, Fish Flotilla. The event is being coordinated by Capt. Chase Camacho. Participants will depart May 2 from a marina in Ft. Lauderdale with a planned return date of May 6.

There will be a “How To Cross” seminar at the I.T. Parker Community Center at Harbor Towne Marina in Ft. Lauderdale on April 19. The twohour seminar will cover many of the safety-related issues that are necessary for a safe and fun crossing.

The weekend will include a number of family friendly activities and a one-day fishing tournament. Bimini Sands Resort and Marina will provide a discount on accommodations. Minimum boat size for participation is 22 feet.

Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 For more information, visit www.bluewaterseries.com click on Flotilla or contact Brad Michael at bradgmichael@gmail.com.

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TIPS FROM A PRO

DON’T FORGET ABOUT SPINNERBAITS BRANDON LESTER

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any great lures have come and gone in the bass fishing world over the years. Some seem to take the whole industry by storm and then die down once the next best thing comes along. Some prove themselves and become a

Make reel memories.

with dirty water, I like a red Colorado blade for extra visibility and a skirt with a lot of chartreuse. In clear water, I can throw double willowleaf blades for a subtler thump, and I’ll opt for a more

Stuart, located in Martin County, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, and the northernmost point of the South Florida Reef, Martin County is home to 100 artificial reef systems and over 800 species of fish. Its climate, waterways and natural environment make it a mecca for fishermen and nautical explorers year-round. An array of unique shops, fine restaurants, great golf courses and quiet beaches make a day ashore fun, too. Inshore, offshore, salt water or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.

staple in everyone’s tackle box.

There is one lure, though, that doesn’t get the attention it deserves on the tournament scene these days. With all the fancy square-bill crankbaits and bladed jigs, it’s easy to forget about the tried-and-true spinnerbait. Few baits are as good at covering water as the spinnerbait, and this time of the year that is half the battle.

Early in the spring, warm days will cause water temperatures to rise. Bass move shallower to look for places to spawn. Water conditions also play a big role in this. More fish move up earlier in dirty water, which warms faster than clear water. When these fish move shallow, they like to get next to a stump, laydown, dock, rock, really anything that holds heat and gives them a place they feel safe.

The spinnerbait is my favorite bait for targeting prespawn fish for two reasons.

Reason No. 1 is they are virtually weedless. I can throw spinnerbaits in pretty thick cover, and as long as I’m careful it will come right through. It comes through wood especially well. Reason No. 2 is the unlimited options. If I’m faced

natural skirt color.

Having all those options is important with the everchanging conditions of spring.

When you’re actively searching for fish, keep an open mind.

I’ve caught them anywhere from bluff banks to shallow flat pockets and everywhere in between this time of year, so let the fish tell you where you need to be and what you should be throwing.

My favorite spinnerbait rod is a 7’2” medium heavy (EPS86MHF) MHX Elite Pro Series rod that I build. It is a great all-purpose blank. It has plenty of tip, so I can make precise casts to targets, and it also has plenty of backbone.

I use a 7:3:1 bait-casting reel spooled with 17-lb. Vicious ProElite fluorocarbon.

If I could only choose one spinnerbait for the rest of my career, it would be a ½-ounce tandem willowleaf/Colorado combo with one silver and one gold blade and a chartreuse and white skirt. My favorite is made by a new company called Kinkee Baits. It has a combination of wrapped wire down to 18/1000-inch wire, which creates vibration bass have never felt before.

Plan your trip at discovermartin.com

Get more tips from Lester at

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By Heather Sneed and Amanda Nalley

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ob and Shelly Stowe, of Jupiter, knew plenty about freshwater fishing from their years living in Michigan, but when it came to saltwater fishing, they weren’t quite sure where to start.

That’s when they found out about a local Family Saltwater Fishing Clinic being hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

“We had no experience with saltwater fishing,” said Shelly. “That class was so complete. It was A++. I learned how to set up a pole, how to unhook a fish from the line, how to cast correctly and how to bait a hook. Every single person involved in teaching that class was so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable that if they had it again, we’d take it again.”

For years FWC has hosted kids’ and women’s fishing clinics. In 2017 they added adult saltwater fishing clinics. These free, one-day educational events are for anyone 18 and older, male or female.

Participants learn everything they need to know to fish on their own, from knot tying and fishing tackle to conservation efforts and marine habitats. Clinic class sizes are kept small for a hands-on approach. At the end of the day, you’ll also get to try catch-and-release fishing firsthand.

Bring your own gear or FWC will provide some for the day. And don’t forget your recreational saltwater fishing license.

Visit MyFWC.com Calendar for upcoming dates and locations. For women and adult saltwater fishing clinics, you’ll need to register in advance, either on the calendar, or by calling 850-487-0554 or emailing Heather.Sneed@MyFWC.com.

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Gateway to the Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico!

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ne particular type of architecture that Florida fishermen know is the fishing shack, usually a ramshackle wooden structure that looks to be on its last legs, but which can still provide a lot of comfort. Some of our bodies of water, in fact, have become well-known to boaters as places where the lucky can tie up far from shore, cook a light meal, rest and even seek shelter from a mild storm.

For example, Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound in the southwestern part of our state have a number of simple, one-story, wood-frame cabins set on pilings. The temporary home-away-from-home usually has no electricity, no plumbing, no phone, and a distance from shore that precludes cell-phone service. They do, however, often have rain gutters to collect water that the fishermen can use for cooking or even drinking.

Florida officials declared the shacks navigational hazards and causers of pollution and actually began to burn some of them down in the mid-1980s, but consultants hired by the fishermen pointed out that the water around the shanties was too shallow for boats to collide with the structures and many fishermen used chemical toilets. As a result, some of the shacks have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places because of their importance in local heritage, and that should preserve them until a powerful hurricane hits them directly.

The flimsy-looking structures, usually made of pine or cypress, can nicely withstand the subtropical sun, the wind and rain. Metal gable roofs and board-and-batten siding protect those inside from storms, and screened windows keep out the flies. The shacks have a good air flow with shutters that can be propped open.

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The wooden stilt houses in Biscayne Bay south of Cape Florida have long been famous among fishermen in Miami-Dade County. Standing about 10 feet above shallow water on wooden or reinforced concrete pillars, Stiltsville dates back to the 1920s and 1930s. Some of the structures may have begun as places for alcohol consumption during Prohibition and for gambling, which was legal a mile offshore, and some of them became quite elaborate.

When Congress expanded the Biscayne National Park in 1980 to include Stiltsville, the existing shacks were allowed to remain, but hurricanes and natural deterioration have taken their toll. Today only seven of the original structures remain, but the park service has added hurricane strapping to help the remaining shacks withstand strong winds. “No trespassing” signs warn interlopers to stay away, and access to the structures is limited to their owners and friends. Stiltsville has been featured enough in magazine articles that many visitors go to Biscayne Bay to see the remaining shacks. That has provided docents an opportunity to teach many non-residents about the rich maritime history of the area.

The above-mentioned are just a few of the different kinds of fishing shacks in our waters, some quite elaborate, some pretty basic, but many with a history and allure that makes them part of our fishing history.

Kevin McCarthy, the award-winning author of “South Florida Waterways” (2013 - available at amazon.com for $7), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail.com.

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FISH & FISHING

Trolling Tactics

“L it.”

MARK SOSIN

et me show you something,” Capt. Skip Smith said. “Pick any trolling lure and any color combination and I’ll catch a fish on

Of course, our selection included the most non-appetizing color combination we could find. One lure was streamed on either side a respectable distance astern. Within 10 minutes, Skip had a sailfish chasing the baits and striking one of the lures.

What he did is etched in memory. Instead of trolling in a straight line, working shallower and then deeper, changing speed, or doing any of the common trolling tactics, Skip took a different approach. He would make a sharp turn to port and a couple of minutes later he made a sharp turn to starboard. This created slack line on the side of the turn and increased speed for the lure on the outside of the turn. When he switched direction, the lure that had sunk picked up speed and headed back to the surface. Let me tell you that the technique works.

Fishing with Capt. Bouncer Smith out of Miami, I learned something else. Inshore waters are burdened with no-wake zones designed to slow down fast-moving boats heading for open water.

While most anglers are frustrated by the slow progress in these waters and can’t wait to get through this delay, Bouncer takes a different approach. He has two rods rigged with swimming plugs, and he streams them astern as he enters the no-wake zone. It’s surprising how many fish he catches on those plugs in areas that hardly anyone fishes.

Another skipper showed me that after he streamed the standard trolling spread, he put another bait directly astern and close to the boat. It surprised me to see how many fish came up and hit that bait. This seems to work particularly well on tuna. If you fail to raise fish on that short bait, try fishing it long down the middle.

That puts it farther astern than the other baits.

Aboard some of the bigger boats with outriggers, captains often troll their long and short baits at specific distances astern.

The clips on the outriggers are attached so that when each line is clipped on, it positions the bait or lure at the same spot each time.

I prefer to adjust the length of the lines based on sea conditions and results. There are days on the water when shorter distances astern work and other times when the results are better if you troll the baits farther back.

As a reminder if you troll natural baits, dead or alive, they should be changed frequently. Too many anglers simply put baits or lures astern and steer a straight course. Successful trolling demands concentration and dedication to details. The key lies in making changes from where you position the offerings to the speed you use and the courses you steer. If you’re not raising fish, keep making changes until you do.

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On The Water With

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By Capt. Ryan Drygas

T

arpon Springs, a small town on the west coast of Florida an hour north of St. Petersburg, is a best-kept secret for redfish and snook. It sits within a web of waterways connecting the Gulf of Mexico to rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes and eventually Tampa Bay. This vast system offers excellent inshore opportunities, and it’s a ton of fun to explore under paddle power.

I know a local who grew up there and knows the water like the back of his hand. Kevin Hawkins, owner of Kaku Kayaks, invited me out on the water to try his newest SUP, the Voodoo. Kevin lives, eats and breathes fishing. When he’s not fishing from one of his kayaks or SUPs, he’s thinking about ways to design these boats so they’re better to fish from. The Voodoo is a hybrid that melds the best qualities of an SUP, a kayak and a micro-skiff.

We launched from his local ramp on a Saturday afternoon a cou-

ple hours before sunset. I don’t have the words to describe the picturesque setting that spread out before me. Mangroves, oyster beds and hidden shoals were in abundance.

We paddled to the tip of a mangrove island where a smaller canal led to docks, sandbars and windbreaks. We had to cross the main channel to get there, and there was a 1- to 2-foot chop with the boating traffic and winds. The Voodoo was stable and fast, tracking straight as it cut through the channel. I was surprised the chop didn’t offer more of a challenge, but the hull design of the Voodoo is flawless. It also features a chair, which—without adjustment—offers two seated positions and can be used as a poling platform. The boat paddles well from a seated or standing position, and the ability to make powerful strokes with a low center of gravity came in handy during the crossing.

As we rounded the tip of the island, we found wind-shade in a pocket. We poled down to cast right under the mangroves and docks. The Voodoo’s stern has five molded-in Power Pole mounts that allow for dual or single Power Pole Micros. And from a stability standpoint, the boat might as well be the deck of a skiff. Kevin hooked into a 25-inch redfish and fought it with ease from the open deck.

As we paddled through the backside of the mangrove islands, we cast to oyster beds and under docks. The final spot Kevin had planned was a back corner of an area with a long sea wall and sand flats. Kevin wanted to hit it right at sunset, when the redfish bite is best. We could see reds tailing over the shoals as the tide went out.

If you are looking for a perfect fishing machine, look no further than Kaku. These boats are a fisherman’s Cadillac. Kevin’s obsession with crafting a superior fishing vessel is evident in the sleek, stable versatility of his boats.

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By Tom Schlichter

Y

ou couldn’t tell by looking in the tannic-stained water, but Capt. Gary Dubiel was convinced redfish were holding just a few feet from the bank. “Toss your line up tight and see what happens,” he instructed.

My cork popper landed with a splat and the trailing DOA shrimp settled toward the bottom. I waited a second, gave a “pop” and watched the cork slide under with an 8-pound red in full protest. “They’ll smack that setup every time,” smiled the skipper.

It’s no secret that the coastal waters of North Carolina teem with redfish and stripers, but many visiting anglers focus their efforts solely on inlet and ocean waters. For truly amazing topwater action, the bays, creeks and river systems are also well worth exploring.

“There’s amazing variety on the inside here,” said Dubiel, of Spec Fever Guide Service (www.specfever.com), who specializes in putting light-tackle and fly-fishing fans right in the mix. Dubiel especially enjoys working the Neuse River area because it hosts stripers and seatrout year-round, plus redfish from spring though mid-October.

“These stripers are estuarine and don’t run to the ocean,” he explained.

“They typically measure up to 32 inches, which makes them perfect for light gear and fly rods. Even better, they mix in with the specks and slot-sized redfish. We often catch all three on the same trip.”

The striper action really heats up in late April when the bass return from spawning farther upriver to offer outstanding surface action from Oriental to New Bern, N.C. Much of the fun takes place in knee-deep depths here in the river’s mouth at Pamlico Sound, and that makes for a ton of topwater thrills.

Interestingly, the Neuse River—America’s widest at 6 miles across the mouth— doesn’t have a lunar rise and fall in tides. Rather than look for current, Dubiel works around structure while using a trolling motor to quietly get in and out of

potential hot spots. He likes casting at old wood when possible, often using a Bob’s Banger Capt. Gary Dubiel of Spec popper. “Because the fish often Fever Guide Service works hang in the shallows here, you can call them from a considerthe long wand for shallow able distance if you make a litwater Neuse River stripers, reds tle noise,” he said. “This is also and specks. Photo by Felicia a great lure for covering a lot of Scocozza. water. Some of our wood fields are pretty expansive.”

Push up into the Neuse River tributaries above and below New Bern and you’ll also find largemouth bass, crappie and perch. The creeks stay warmer than the river in the winter months, so there are times in late winter and early spring when you might catch any of these along with a striper, redfish or speckled trout as well.

“It certainly makes for an interesting mixed bag,” quipped Dubiel.

Just an hour drive from Moorhead City, N.C., the Neuse River is easily accessible from Oriental, New Bern or the ICW. For accommodations, consider Bridgepoint Marina (www.bridgepointe.com) in New Bern. It’s within 500 yards of public launching at both Lawson Creek Landing and Union Park Point. For more info on the New Bern area, visit www.visitnewbern.com.

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United States Power Squadrons–America’s

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ho doesn’t have a smile on their face when they’re spending time on the water? You can’t help yourself. Boating is the definition of getting away from it all. And getting away from it all is always more fun with friends. This is where the United States Power Squadrons–America’s Boating Club comes in.

Enjoying your time on the water with family and friends starts with being safe and responsible while having fun. That’s what makes America’s Boating Club different than most boating organizations.

For over a hundred years, the organization’s focus has been on providing unsurpassed boating safety education. But the organization’s leadership and members are passionate about a membership that doesn’t end on Sunday and doesn’t care if the calendar says it’s winter. It’s about being together and building a community through a variety of events like parties, meetings and even just getting together for no reason at all.

Driven by this passion, United States Power Squadrons–America’s Boating Club, the country’s largest nonprofit boating organization, just launched its new logo. This is the first of several planned updates in the organization’s new brand image and identity. Changes to the organization’s website, social media platforms and collateral are expected in the coming weeks.

“We are United States Power Squadrons but we are also America’s Boating Club,” said Gary Cheney, chief commander, United States Power Squadrons. “This is not just a name change, it describes what we do. We go boating and have fun doing it. Our squadrons are social clubs as well as providers of high quality boating education— allowing members to enjoy the sport and camaraderie of boating and any number of activities that keep us together. Togetherness is what this lifestyle is all about. We joined the organization for the boating education, but we stayed for the friends.”

Offering classes For Boaters, By Boaters in boat handling, navigation, boat maintenance, weather and related subjects, United States Power Squadrons— America’s Boating Club serves as a virtual “yacht club” with boating and social activities for all types of recreational boaters. With over 27,000 members organized into 356 local clubs across the country, America’s Boating Club is comprised of families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education.

Members are vital to strengthening the communities they live in and know it’s important to live their values by giving back through public service and volunteer opportunities. Members provide courtesy vessel safety checks, help the NOAA’s National Ocean Service keep nautical charts accurate and organize beach cleanups.

“Our commitment is to continue learning, teaching, laughing and helping our fellow members enjoy boating,” continued Cheney.

“Whether you’re passionate about cruising, racing, making new friends, volunteering in your community or learning from experienced boaters, your local squadron has the resources you need to engage your passions and, perhaps, instill some new ones.”

In February of 2017, the United States Power Squadrons announced its America’s Boating Club co-brand to its squadrons, following an almost yearlong renaming exercise.

To learn more about United States Power Squadrons–America’s Boating Club, visit www.americasboatingclub.org.

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FRESHWATER Jordan Lee Wins Back-To-Back

Bassmaster Classics Bassmaster photos by Andy Crawford

I

n sixth place headed into the final day of the Bassmaster Classic on March 18 at lake Hartwell, S.C., Alabama’s Jordan Lee was in striking distance to do what only two anglers have ever done—win the Super Bowl of bass fishing twice in a row.

And he did it. With a final day surge that took him to the scales with 16 pounds, 5 ounces, Lee tallied a three-day total of 47-1 to edge out California pro Brent Ehrler by a single pound.

With his Classic win last year at Lake Conroe, Texas, Lee joins Rick Clunn and Kevin VanDam as the only three anglers in the history of the sport to win back-to-back classics. With the $300,000 purse, Lee pushed his career earnings with B.A.S.S past the million-dollar mark.

“It was just a perfect week for me,” Lee told Bassmaster. “I caught fish on five different baits and a lot of different techniques.”

Boat docks were the ticket to Lee’s success.

Following poor practice rounds, he could not nail down a strong pattern. From Day 1, Lee reverted to his comfort zone and his strength.

“I just wanted to cover as much water as I could to give myself the best chance of putting a bait in front of a fish,” he told Bassmaster. “On this lake, I knew boat docks were going to play because they always do—and that’s what I like to do.”

Live on Day 1, video showed Lee pumping his fists over a chunky largemouth he finessed out from under a dock with black floats. Black floats tend to warm the water around them, and the fish were staging up prior to the spawn. A strong sack of 18-10 on Day 1 must have buoyed Lee’s confidence in the dock pattern.

Despite catching nothing but smaller spotted bass and just 12-2 on Day 2, Lee was still solidly in the top 25 to make the cut to fish Championship Sunday.

Lee found his magic pocket on Day 3. Fishing a Strike King Rage Swimmer, a Strike King Ocho and a Strike King Shimmy Stick, he stuck to that one little pocket and pulled fish from beneath almost every dock. Green pumpkin was his primary color.

Jason Christie, of Oklahoma, who led through the first two days of competition, dropped back to third place after the final day with a three-day total of 45-15. Ehrler’s 46-1 earned him second place.

Alabama pro Mark Daniels Jr. caught the Berkley Big Bass of the tournament, a 6-pound, 11-ounce largemouth that won him $2,500.

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UNDER THE SEA

Tricks of the Trade

L

ike land hunters or rod-and-reel fishermen, spearos also study and perfect some tricks of the trade. Spearos immerse themselves into the fishes’ environment, so the first skill to master is to look like you belong there. Beginners tend to exhibit aggressive behavior, chasing and spooking fish. If fish scatter when you get near, study how calmly an experienced diver moves in the water.

Until you achieve a non-threatening aura, all other tips and tricks will be useless.

After achieving smooth diving technique, here are some techniques to get near fish.

1) Aspetto (Italian for “wait”)—It starts from the surface with a smooth duck-dive into the water while removing the snorkel.

You descend with soft kicks until you begin to free-fall as you scan the bottom. By turning your fin blades, you maneuver to the right spot, perhaps where the reef meets sand. You lie motionless on the bottom until curious fish come to check you out. Moving only your eyes, you pick out the prey, move your gun slowly, and make a well-placed shot. A good spearo will make this technique look easy, but it is not. This is especially effective with evasive fish that become curious when you do not move, such as mutton snappers in Florida, stripers in the northeast, and bigeye emperors in Hawaii.

2) Agguato (Italian for “ambush”)–This is a dynamic stalking technique to get closer to prey without being noticed. The diver navigates the bottom using the environment to get closer to the prey. The diver must consider current, visibility and available bottom structure while moving from one object to another, blending into shadows or hiding behind reef formations. If your body can be hidden while closing the gap, the fish will remain unaware of your presence.

3) Flashers/ Sheri Daye practices “aspetto” technique. chum—Especially Photo by Joe Marino effective for hunting pelagics such as jacks, tunas, dolphin and wahoo.

Multiple mirrors dangle below a float, and the flashes of light in the water imitate the reflective glare from a school of baitfish. The fish come in to investigate. Chum can be used in combination with a flasher to bring them even closer and keep them interested.

In addition to these techniques, serious spearos are likely to train in a pool, use meditation techniques, and do cardio exercises to increase their breath hold capacity. Many take freediving classes to increase bottom time and safety. While there is no certification required to do it, classes should be a pre-requisite, as freediving is a sport that can lead to “blackout” and death if not practiced correctly.

Spearfishing is a beautiful, selective way to catch fish, but it is also physically and mentally demanding. Above all, be safe and happy hunting!

Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

For more Sheri Daye, go to

CAMSPEARFISHING.COM

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hen Jesus Chavarria was a small boy nearly 60 years ago, he remembers a giant silver fish with huge scales brought to the dock at his home in the small Pacific river port of Sierpe, Costa Rica. No one had any idea what it was.

He went on to captain offshore sport fishing boats all over the west coast of Costa Rica for the next 35 years and retired a few years ago to taking guests fishing the backwaters of the Sierpe River. His specialty is snook but now and then he began to catch tarpon.

Tarpon are not indigenous to the Pacific Ocean, but over the years anglers began to encounter a tarpon now and then. The thought is that over more than a century since it was constructed, the Panama Canal has provided passage for tarpon, which now reside in the Pacific. Tarpon capture has been recorded as far south as Colombia and as far north as El Salvador.

Saul Porras’ capture of a tarpon that weighed barely 3 pounds at a creek mouth in southern Costa Rica changed the whole thought process. Chances that a fish that small swam through the canal and that far are slim. Are tarpon now breeding in the Pacific?

FECOP, the sport fishing advocacy and conservation group in Costa Rica, agreed to sponsor a project to find out more about tarpon in the Pacific. They contacted Didiher Chacon, who had worked on a Costa Rican Caribbean tarpon project almost three decades ago in Barra del Colorado for Dr. Roy Crabtree, of Florida. He agreed to work on the science part of the project.

“The Sierpe Wetlands are perfect habitat for juvenile tarpon,” explained Chacon. “That very well may account for the increase in numbers of tarpon caught there in the last few years.” Most of the river tarpon are small, less than 30 pounds, but fish as large as 100 pounds have also been taken.

Phase 1 of the project will concentrate in southern Costa Rica. A DNA comparison will be done between Pacific-caught tarpon and tarpon taken from different parts of the Caribbean side of the country. They will also study what the Pacific tarpon have been feeding on. Today this can be done with a small tissue sample without sacrificing the fish. All Pacific caught tarpon will also be tagged.

Chacon noted that there is a possibility over time for tarpon to change the ecology of the rivers. It is not yet known what they are feeding on or how they will affect native fish. The Pacific-side tarpon are now showing with enough frequency to make it worth finding out.

Tropical storm Nate delayed the project when the massive amounts of rain that fell not only caused major landslides but also completely flushed everything out of most of the country’s rivers.

Find out more about Pacific tarpon and other FECOP projects on sport fishing conservation at www.fishcostarica.org.

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The Trident 11,13 and 15 now feature the new Active Comfort System 2.0 seating that is all-day comfortable. A re-designed Mod Pod stores your tackleboxes, while providing sliding access inside the hull, a cup holder and locking dry storage for valuables. The new Mod Pod is slightly slimmer to provide more leg room and to make standing to fish easier.

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N

ot long ago, people didn’t know there were great white sharks off the coast of South Carolina. Now, thanks to the obsessive pursuit of them by Outcast Sport Fishing Charter Capt. Chip Michalove, everyone knows they’re out there, and in numbers during the winter months.

Michalove seems to have figured it out, and he’s not sharing his secrets for fear of hurting the species he spent more than a decade trying to pattern. The captain has caught nearly 30 of these apex predators over the last three years. His most recent catch has made national news after a post about him catching a 16-foot-long, 3,000-pound white shark went viral from his Facebook page.

Journalist Mandy Matney wrote in Hilton Head Island’s Island Packet about Michalove’s giant fish. She reported that with a two-man skeleton crew, Michalove had to radio to another fishing boat for backup to bring the giant fish boatside where it could be tagged and released.

Michalove tags great whites for the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy in Chatham, Mass., according to the Island Packet report. They are working to study the movements of the sharks in the Atlantic, and through technique Michalove does everything he can to put minimal stress on the animals.

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